Longreach, Australia, isn’t just about cattle stations and wide-open skies. It’s also a fantastic place to explore the Thompson River from the water. With its mix of wildlife, indigenous stories, and stunning sunsets, Longreach offers several memorable boat tours and cruises. Some stand out for their storytelling, others for their food, and a few for their intimate setting. Among these, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise includes Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show is a top pick, thanks to its combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and lively entertainment. If you’re after a cozy, small-group experience, the Starlights Cruise Experience is worth considering for its relaxed vibe and campfire dinner.
This list highlights a variety of options: from classic sunset paddlewheel cruises with live music to immersive evening river adventures with storytelling by the campfire. Whether you want a full evening of entertainment or a quick scenic trip, Longreach’s boat tours cater to different interests and budgets. Read on for detailed insights into each experience, and find the one that best suits your Outback adventure.
1. Drover’s Sunset Cruise includes Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show
At number 1 on our list, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise is a real standout. For about $107.80 per person, you get a 4.5-hour journey that combines stunning river views, indigenous stories, and a hearty camp-oven dinner. The cruise departs in the late afternoon, giving you the chance to see Longreach’s iconic sunset over the Thompson River. The crew shares fascinating stories about wildlife, local indigenous heritage, and the river’s role in outback life.
What really elevates this cruise is the stop at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show, where you’ll enjoy a two-course campfire meal accompanied by lively entertainment. Guests often praise its “wonderful and informative” atmosphere, and the experience is especially popular for its blend of scenery, storytelling, and authentic outback hospitality. The top deck provides 360-degree views, perfect for photos of the vibrant sunset. With an on-board licensed bar and complimentary snacks, this cruise offers excellent value for a well-rounded evening.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those wanting a scenic sunset combined with a lively cultural experience and great food. Book early, as this popular tour fills quickly.
2. Starlights Cruise Experience
Number 2 on our list is the Starlights Cruise Experience—a quieter, more intimate option priced at around $101.02 per person. This 4-hour cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, small-group outing. It begins with a gentle sunset cruise down the Thomson River, where you might see birds settling in for the night. The highlight is the after-dark outdoor movie of Captain Starlight, a favorite local legend, shown on a big screen beside the riverbank.
A unique feature is the campfire dinner of tea and damper, enjoyed under the stars. You can bring your own alcohol at no extra charge, making this experience flexible for your preferences. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Longreach motels and campgrounds, making logistics easy. Reviewers mention it as a “relaxed evening” with “good food and entertainment,” and appreciate the storytelling aspect.
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a more personal, low-key evening with cultural stories and a chance to relax around the campfire. It’s suited for those who prefer smaller groups and a touch of the traditional outback experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you value intimacy and storytelling, especially for a quiet evening out in the bush.
3. Longreach: Drover’s Sunset Cruise & Outback Dinner & Show
Coming in at number 3, this combined cruise and dinner experience offers a balanced taste of river scenery and outback culture. For around $105 per person, you’ll enjoy a sunset cruise along the Collabah Tree-lined Thompson River, with captivating views as the colors of the sky change. The tour includes complimentary homemade nibbles and a two-course camp oven dinner under the stars, making it ideal for those looking for a relaxed, scenic evening.
The musical entertainment on board adds a lively touch, and the stories shared by the captain provide insight into local wildlife and indigenous heritage. Guests often comment on the “outstanding sunset photo opportunities,” which makes this tour appealing for photography enthusiasts. The price reflects good value, especially considering the quality of the local food and entertainment.
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a full evening of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment without the crowd. It’s especially suited for those looking for a well-rounded Outback experience in a laid-back setting.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers who want scenic beauty, good food, and some music, all in one smooth evening.
4. Sunset Paddlewheeler Cruise, Show and Dinner
Number 4 on our list is the Sunset Paddlewheeler Cruise, Show and Dinner—a classic outback river experience with roots stretching back to the original paddlewheel days. For just $100, you get a 4-hour cruise aboard the historic Thomson Belle, with live commentary from your skipper. The ride includes a 2-course stockman’s dinner, with traditional bush entertainment, including poetry and storytelling.
The highlight is the Starlight’s Sound & Light Show on the riverbank, which transforms the night into a theatrical spectacle. Guests love the nostalgic feel of the paddlewheeler, and reviews mention how the traditional bush entertainment adds a layer of authenticity. The meal features billy tea and damper with golden syrup, evoking a true Outback flavor.
This cruise is suited for those nostalgic for the old days of river travel or looking for a comprehensive evening with entertainment and dining. It’s a good balance of history, scenery, and local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and those wanting a lively, multi-layered river cruise.
5. Smithys Sunset Cruise
Number 5, the Smithys Sunset Cruise, offers a shorter but equally scenic 2.5-hour trip for about $73.99. This tour is focused on delivering a relaxing sunset experience aboard the M.V. Longreach Explorer. The boat’s top deck provides 360-degree views of the floodplain and river, making it perfect for capturing photos of the changing sky.
The crew shares stories about the river’s wildlife and Indigenous heritage, adding an educational touch. Complimentary nibbles and the option to buy drinks from the licensed bar make this a comfortable, no-fuss choice. Many reviews rave about the “terrific views” and “captivating stories,” with some highlighting it as a “must-do” at sunset.
This option suits travelers who want a short, scenic escape and enjoy wildlife spotting or photo opportunities. It’s good value for a quick but quality experience.
Bottom Line: A great pick for a sunset outing with minimal fuss and maximum scenic views.
6. Smithy’s Sunset Cruise (15 Oct-30 March)
Rounding out the list, this seasonal sunset cruise runs from October to March, offering a 2.5-hour experience priced at $72 per person. Similar to the Smithys Sunset Cruise, it features colorful skies and breathtaking river views.
The tour includes a sunset cruise along the Collabah Tree-lined river, with complimentary homemade nibbles onboard. Its shorter duration makes it ideal for those with limited time but still wanting to enjoy Longreach’s signature sunset.
This cruise is perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting a reliable, scenic tour during the warmer months. It’s straightforward but offers a genuine Outback sunset experience.
Bottom Line: An economical and reliable option for a sunset cruise during the season.
$72 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Longreach
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and what kind of atmosphere appeals to you. For a full evening of entertainment, food, and storytelling, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with Smithy’s Dinner offers a lively, comprehensive outing. If you prefer a more intimate, relaxed vibe with storytelling and campfire charm, the Starlights Cruise Experience excels.
For those with limited time, the shorter Smithy’s Sunset Cruise still provides breathtaking views and a taste of Outback hospitality. Budget travelers might find the seasonal [Smithy’s Sunset Cruise (15 Oct-30 March)] an affordable, reliable choice.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season (October to March), as these tours are popular and often fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Longreach’s boat tours showcase the best of the Outback from a different perspective—by water. Whether you’re after a spectacular sunset, a story-filled paddlewheeler journey, or an authentic campfire dinner, there’s an experience to match your style. For travelers seeking a lively evening with entertainment and excellent food, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with Dinner stands out. If you prefer a quieter, more personal experience, the Starlights Cruise is a perfect pick.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable Outback water adventures.